FOOTBALL mad shoppers have been snapping up cut-price England shirts after they went on sale at Tesco in Horwich yesterday . Supermarket bosses are hoping to score a success after offering the prized kits at 25pc less than high-street shops. Horwich Tesco manager Peter Hampson said: "They are going brilliantly."

Thousands of shirts have gone on sale in Tesco stores throughout the country as the supermarket chain continues its bid to undercut brand-name retailers.

The retail and food outlet has secured £1.5 million worth of shirts, tracksuits, shorts and T-shirts for a variety of teams competing in the World Cup Finals.

Prices include adult Umbro England shirts for £33 compared with a retail price of £45 and kids shirts for £25 instead of £31.25.

The consignment of shirts was bought secretly, without the manufacturers' approval from wholesalers in Europe in what is known as the "grey market."

It is so named because it is neither illegal nor accepted practice.

In the past Tesco has sold heavily discounted ranges of Nike and Adidas sportswear, Levi jeans and Calvin Klein clothing purchased on the grey market.

The supermarket claims it is making a stand against selective distribution and inflated high street prices.

Tesco commercial director John Gildersleeve said: "Sourcing these shirts has not been easy with official suppliers constructing many obstacles.

"However football shirts have been kept too expensive for too long through selective distribution.

"This is essential kit for fans and they can now get it at Tesco at a realistic price."

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